DCLane
Found in the Yorkshire hills ...
- Location
- Dewsbury, West Yorkshire
Newcastle U.K.
The nearest circuit to you is in Middlesbrough, which is a bit of a trek. There's frequently an adult riding session there.
Have a look at the British Cycling HSBC UK Go-Ride North East Facebook page for more information about what's local to you: https://www.facebook.com/NewcastleGoRide/
There's also the non-BC Facebook page as well: https://www.facebook.com/groups/CDnortheast/560130534027653/
Basically as you're 17 you're classed as a Junior until you are 18. At your age you would be riding on Junior gear restrictions, except for Time Trials when there aren't any, and a 4th Category rider under British Cycling regulations.
There's also the TLI series which was run at Croft near Darlington this year: http://www.tlicycling.org.uk/
There are enough clubs / events near you for you to get involved and see. To do a time trial you will need to be part of an affiliated club, as with many of the other events. That's for the organiser's and other riders confidence that you can ride more than anything.